Metallized polymeric film reflective insulation material

ABSTRACT

A method of thermally insulating an object that requires a Class A standard insulation material, said method comprising suitably locating a metallized polymeric reflective insulation material adjacent said object, wherein said polymeric material is selected from a closed cell foam, polyethylene foam, polypropylene foam, expanded polystyrene foam, multi-film layers assembly and a bubble-pack assembly. The object is preferably packaging, a vehicle or a residential, commercial or industrial building or establishment. The polymeric material may contain a fire-retardant and the bright surface of the metallized layer has a clear lacquer coating to provide anti-corrosion properties, and which maintains satisfactory reflectance commercial criteria.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to metallized polymeric reflective insulationmaterial, particularly, bubble pack insulation material for use in anenvironment that requires a Class A standard insulation material,particularly, as packaging, and in vehicles, and, more particularly, inresidential, commercial and industrial buildings and establishmentscomprising a framed structure, walls, crawl spaces and the like, andwrapping for water heaters, pipes and the like.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Insulation materials are known which comprise a clean, non-toxic, heatbarrier made of aluminum foil bonded to polymeric materials.

Examples of such insulation materials, includes aluminum foil backingwith foam materials selected from closed cell foams, polyethylene foams,polypropylene foams and expanded polystyrene foams (EPS).

Alternative insulation materials in commercial use are made fromaluminum foil bonded to a single or double layer of polyethylene-formedbubbles spaced one bubble from another bubble in the so-called“bubble-pack” arrangement. Such non-foil bubble-packs are usedextensively as packaging material, whereas the metal foil bubble-pack isused as thermal insulation in wood frame structures, walls, attics,crawl spaces, basements and the like and as wrapping for hot waterheaters, hot and cold water pipes, air ducts and the like. Thereflective surface of the metal, particularly, aluminum foil enhancesthe thermal insulation of the air-containing bubble pack.

Organic polymers, such as polyethylene, are generally considered to behigh-heat-release materials. They can easily initiate or propagate firesbecause, on exposure to heat, they undergo thermal degradation tovolatile combustible products. If the concentration of the degradationproducts in the air is within flammability limits, they can igniteeither spontaneously, if their temperature is large enough, or by theeffect of an ignition source such as a spark or flame. The ignition ofpolyethylene can be delayed and/or the rate of its combustion decreasedby means of fire retardant materials.

The ultimate aim of fire retardants is to reduce the heat transferred tothe polymer below its limit for self-sustained combustion or below thecritical level for flame stability. This can be achieved by decreasingthe rate of chemical and/or physical processes taking place in one ormore of the steps of the burning process. One or a combination of thefollowing can achieve fire extinguishing:

1. creation of a heat sink by using a compound that decomposes in ahighly endothermic reaction giving non-combustible volatile products,which perform a blanketing action in the flame, e.g., aluminum ormagnesium hydroxide;

2. enhancements of loss of heat and material from the surface of theburning polymer by melt dripping, e.g., mixture of halogenated compoundswith free radical initiators;

3. flame poisoning by evolution of chemical species that scavenge H andOH radicals which are the most active in propagating thermo-oxidation inthe flame, e.g., hydrogen halides, metal halides, phosphorus-containingmoieties;

4. limitation of heat and mass transfer across the phase boundary,between thermal oxidation and thermal degradation by creation of aninsulating charred layer on the surface of the burning polymer, e.g.,intumescent chart; or

5. modification of the rate of thermal volatilization of the polymer todecrease the flammability of the volatile products; which approachstrongly depends on the chemical nature of the polymer.

Fire retardant materials are generally introduced to the polyethylene asmerely additives or as chemicals that will permanently modify itsmolecular structure. The additive approach is more commonly used becauseit is more flexible and of general application.

Generally, low density polyethylene films of 1-12 mil, optionally, withvarious amounts of linear low density polyethylene in admixture whenadditional strength is required, are used for the above applications.The insulating properties of the bubble pack primarily arise from theair in the voids. Typically, bubble diameters of 1.25 cm, 0.60 cm and0.45 cm are present.

Regardless of the application method of fire retardant material(s), asatisfactory insulative assembly must have a fire rating of Class A witha flame spread index lower than 16, and a smoke development numbersmaller than 23. Further, the bonding of the organic polymer films andtheir aging characteristics must meet the aforesaid acceptablestandards. Yet further, the fabrication method(s) of a new fireretardant system or assembly should be similar to the existingtechnology with reasonable and cost effective modifications to theexisting fabrication system/technology. Still yet further, otherphysical properties of an improved fire standard system must at leastmeet, for example, the standard mechanical properties for duct materialsas seen by existing competitive products.

Fire retardant polyethylene films, wires and cables containing a fireretardant material in admixture with the polyethylene per se are knownwhich generally satisfy cost criteria and certain fire retardanttechnical standards to be commercially acceptable.

Conventional fire retardant additives are usually compounds of smallmolecular weights containing phosphorus, antimony, or halogens. The mosteffective commercially available fire retardant systems are based onhalogen-containing compounds. However, due to concerns over theenvironmental effects of such halogenated compounds, there is aninternational demand to control the use of such halogenated additives.

Some of the most common halogenated agents are methyl bromide, methyliodide, bromochlorodifluoromethane, dibromotetrafluoroethane,dibromodifluoromethane and carbon tetrachloride. These halogenated fireretarding materials are usually available commercially in the form ofgases or liquids. Unlike chlorine and bromine, fluorine reduces thetoxicity of the material and imparts stability to the compound. However,chlorine and bromine have a higher degree of fire extinguishingeffectiveness and, accordingly, a combination of fluorine and eitherchlorine or bromine is usually chosen to obtain an effectivefire-retarding compounds.

Other commercially available fire retardant materials that do notinclude halogens include boric acid and borate based compounds,monoammonium phosphonate, and urea-potassium bicarbonate.

Intumescent compounds which limit the heat and mass transfer by creatingan insulating charred layer on the surface of the burning polymer arealso considered fire retardant materials. A typical intumescent additiveis a mixture of ammonium polyphosphate and pentaerythritol.

Fire retardant additives are often used with organic polymer/resins.Typically, a brominated or chlorinated organic compound is added to thepolymer in admixture with a metal oxide such as antimony oxide.Halogenated compounds are also sometimes introduced into the polymerchain by co-polymerization. Low levels i.e. less than 1% W/W arerecommended to make adverse effects of halogen-based systems negligible.Another common fire retardant additive is diglycidyl ether ofbisphenol-A with MoO.sub.3. Other additives to improve the fireretarding properties of polyethylene include, for example,beta-cyclodextrin, magnesium hydroxide and alumina trihydrate, tinoxide, zinc hydroxystannate, and chlorosulphonated polyethylene.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,322,873, issued Nov. 27, 2001 to Orologio, Furio,describes a thermally insulating bubble pack for use in framedstructures, walls, crawl spaces and the like; or wrapping for cold waterheaters, pipes and the like wherein the bubbles contain a fire retardantmaterial. The improved bubble pack comprises a first film having aplurality of portions wherein each of the portions defines a cavity; asecond film in sealed engagement with the first film to provide aplurality of closed cavities; the improvement comprising wherein thecavities contain a fluid or solid material. The flameretardant-containing bubble pack provides improved fire ratings, flamespread indices and smoke development numbers. The preferred embodimentsinclude a layer of metal or metallized film adjacent at least one of thefilms. However, the efficacious manufacture of the fire retardant-filledbubbles still represents a challenge.

Aforesaid bubble-packs not containing fire retardant materials andhaving a metallized film layer are known and used for externalinsulation around large self-standing structures, such as tanks, silosand the like, particularly in the oil and chemical industries, whichinsulation assembly does not have to meet the rigorous fire retardantstandards for insulation in framed structures of residential, commercialand industrial buildings, crawl spaces and the like or wrappings forcold water heaters, pipes and the like, therein.

Metallized films and their methods of production are well-known in theart. One technique is to evaporate an extremely thin layer of nearlypure aluminum onto a surface of the non-porous plastics material undervacuum by a so-called ‘vacuum metallizer’. Preferred metallized films ofuse in the practise of the invention are metallized aluminum coatedpolymer films, preferably, for example, 48 gauge PET (polyethyleneterephthalate).

There is, however, always the need for insulation assembly, havingimproved fire retardant standards, particularly when safety buildingcodes are being continually improved.

Standards for many products are generally being raised to enhancesafety. This is true for reflective insulation materials for use inbuildings, which must meet minimum surface burning characteristics tosatisfy codes, such as CAN/ULC S201, UL723, ANSI No. 2.5, NFPA No. 255and 286, UBC 42-1, ASTM E84-05 and others. These tests cover two mainparameters, mainly, Flame Spread and Smoke Developed Values.

Such reflective insulation materials are classified as meeting theratings as follows:—

Interior Wall and Flame Smoke Ceiling Finish Speed Value Developed ValueClass A  0-25 0-450 Class B 26-75 0-450 Class C 76-200 0-450

The classification determines the environmental allowability of thereflective materials insulation.

The standard ASTM E84 and its variations tests, todate, have included,typically, the use of a hexagonal 50 mm steel wire mesh with 6 mmdiameter steel rods spaced at 610 mm intervals to support the insulationmaterials.

Without being bound by theory, the skilled persons in the art havediscovered that the aforesaid use of the wire mesh support in the testshas enabled some reflective insulation materials to satisfy the Class Astandard, whereas removal of the support in the test has caused thesematerials not to meet the standard.

Surprisingly, I have discovered that substitution of metallic foil,particularly, aluminum foil, with a metallized, particularly, aluminum,coating on an organic polymer layer, e.g. polyethylene and moreparticularly PET (polyethylene teraphthate), favourably enhances thesurface burning characteristics of the reflective insulation in theaforesaid ASTM E84 test in the absence of the wire mesh support. Thereason for this discovery is not, as yet, understood.

Further, I have discovered that the presence of a fire retardantcompound in or on one or more of the polymer layers of a reflectiveinsulation assembly further favourably enhances the surface burningcharacteristics of the insulation, and in preferred embodimentssignificantly enhances the safety of the assemblies as to satisfy thecriteria set in the most stringent “Full Room Bum Test for EvaluatingContribution of Wall and Ceiling Finishes to Room Fire Growth—NFPA 286.

Metallized polymeric films having an outer lacquer coating are known inthe foodstuff packaging industry in order to provide physical protectionto the ink printed on the outer metallic surface. Manual contact withthe unprotected inked material surface would cause inconvenience to theperson and possibly contamination of the foodstuffs, such asconfectionary and potato chips when handed by the person. Thelacquer-coated outer metallic surface overcomes this problem in thefoodstuff art.

Surprisingly, I have found that the most preferred metallized polymericfilm reflective insulation materials, particularly the fire-retardantcontaining assemblies, according to the invention provide improvedsafety towards fire and acceptable reflectance and anti-corrosiveproperties.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the present invention to provide metallized polymericfilm reflective insulation material having Class A thermal insulationproperties, particularly, metallized bubble pack insulation material foruse in an environment that requires a Class A standard insulationmaterial, particularly, as packaging, and in vehicles, and moreparticularly in residential, commercial and industrial buildings andestablishments having framed structures, walls, crawl spaces and thelike, and wrapping for water heaters, pipes and the like having improvedfire retardant properties.

It is a further object to provide a method of thermally insulating anaforesaid vehicle, building or establishment with a Class A standardmetallized polymeric reflective insulation material having improvedfire-retardant properties.

In yet a further object, the invention provides an improvedthermally-insulated vehicle, building or establishment having a Class Astandard metallized polymeric reflective insulation material.

Accordingly, the invention in one aspect provides a method of thermallyinsulating an object that requires a Class A standard insulationmaterial, said method comprising suitably locating a metallizedpolymeric reflective insulation material adjacent said object, whereinsaid polymeric material is selected from a closed cell foam,polyethylene foam, polypropylene foam, expanded polystyrene foam,multi-film layers assembly and a bubble-pack assembly.

Without being limiting, the object is preferably selected from the groupconsisting of vehicles and residential, commercial and industrialbuilding and establishment.

The term ‘vehicle’ includes, for example, but not limited to,automobiles, buses, trucks, train engines and coaches, ships and boats.

The invention provides in a further aspect, a method of thermallyinsulating a residential, commercial or industrial building with ametallized polymeric material, said method comprising locating saidmetallized polymeric material within a frame structure, crawl space andthe like, or wrapping water heaters, pipes, and the like, within saidbuilding, wherein said polymeric material is selected from a closed cellfoam, polyethylene foam, polypropylene foam, expanded polystyrene foamand a bubble-pack assembly.

The invention provides in a further aspect a method of thermallyinsulating a residential, commercial or industrial building with abubble-pack assembly, said method comprising locating said bubble packwithin a framed structure, wall, crawl space and the like, or wrappingwater heaters, pipes and the like within said building; and wherein saidbubble-pack assembly comprises a first thermoplastic film having aplurality of portions wherein each of said portions defines a cavity; asecond film in sealed engagement with said first film to provide aplurality of closed said cavities; and at least one layer of metallizedthermoplastic film.

The terms “cavity” or “cavities” in this specification include voids,bubbles or other like closed spaces. The cavities may be formed of anydesired suitable shapes. For example, semi-cylindrical, oblong orrectangular. However, a generally, hemi-spherical shape is preferred.

Most surprisingly, I have found that the use of at least one layer ofmetallized thermoplastic film provides enhanced fire retardantproperties over those having only a corresponding layer(s) of aluminumfoil, in the bubble-pack assembly.

In a further aspect, the invention provides a method as hereinabovedefined wherein said bubble-pack assembly comprises

-   (i) a first bubble pack having a first thermoplastic film having a    plurality of portions wherein each of said portions defines a cavity    and a second thermoplastic film in sealed engagement with said first    film to provide a plurality of closed said cavities; and-   (ii) a second bubble-pack having a third thermoplastic film having a    plurality of portions wherein each of said portions defines a cavity    and a fourth thermoplastic film in sealed engagement with said third    film to provide a plurality of closed said cavities; provided that    when said at least one of said layers of metallized thermoplastic    film is interposed between and bonded to said first bubble pack and    said second bubble pack, said assembly comprises at least one    further metallized thermoplastic film.

In a further aspect, the invention provides a method as hereinabovedefined wherein said bubble-pack assembly comprises

-   (i) a first bubble pack having a first thermoplastic film having a    plurality of portions wherein each of said portions defines a cavity    and a second thermoplastic film in sealed engagement with said first    film to provide a plurality of closed said cavities; and-   (ii) a second bubble-pack having a third thermoplastic film having a    plurality of portions wherein each of said portions defines a cavity    and a fourth thermoplastic film in sealed engagement with said third    film to provide a plurality of closed said cavities;-   (iii) a metallized thermoplastic film interposed between and bonded    to said first bubble pack and said second bubble pack; and wherein    at least one of said first second, third, fourth or additional    thermoplastic films contains an effective amount of a fire-retardant    material.

The assembly, as hereinabove defined, may have at least one outer layerof metallized thermoplastic film, or, surprisingly, one or more inner,only, layers.

The assembly may, thus, further comprise at least one or a plurality ofadditional thermoplastic films.

Further, I have found that the use of a fire-retardant material in anyor all of the thermoplastic films of the assembly enhances thefire-retardant properties of the assembly.

Accordingly, in a further aspect, the invention provides a bubble-packassembly comprising

-   (i) a first thermoplastic film having a plurality of portions    wherein each of said portions defines a cavity;-   (ii) a second film in sealed engagement with said first film to    provide a plurality of closed said cavities; and-   (iii) at least one layer of a metallized thermoplastic film; and    wherein at least one of said first or second films contains an    effective amount of a fire-retardant.

In a further aspect, the invention provides a bubble-pack assemblycomprising

-   (i) a first bubble pack having a first thermoplastic film having a    plurality of portions wherein each of said portions defines a cavity    and a second thermoplastic film in sealed engagement with said first    film to provide a plurality of closed said cavities; and-   (ii) a second bubble-pack having a third thermoplastic film having a    plurality of portions wherein each of said portions defines a cavity    and a fourth thermoplastic film in sealed engagement with said third    film to provide a plurality of closed said cavities.

Further, the metallized thermoplastic film may also contain afire-retardant material to further enhance the assemblies'fire-retardant properties.

The thermoplastic films may be formed of any suitable polymer orcopolymer material. The first and second film may be formed of the sameor different material. Most preferably, the bubble pack has each of thefilms formed of a polyethylene.

The metallized thermoplastic film is preferably a polyester, and, morepreferably, a polyethylene terephthate having a metal coating.

The fire retardant material may be a compound or composition comprisingone or more compounds having acceptable fire retardant properties.

The amount of fire retardant material is such as to provide anefficacious amount in relation to the amount of plastic and othercomponents present in the bubble pack. Thus, the amount of fireretardant material required will depend on the application of theassembly, the type and effectiveness of the fire retardant materialused, the final properties required e.g. flame spread index, slowburning or self-extinguishing, and the bubble size. The fire retardantis generally present in an amount selected from 0.1-70% w/w, morepreferably, 10-60% w/w, preferably 15-20% w/w in relation to thethermoplastic film.

Examples of suitable fire retardants of use in the practice of theinvention, include those classes and compounds as hereinbeforedescribed. Preferably, the fire retardant compound is selected fromalumina trihydrate (ATH, hydrated aluminum oxide, Al₂O₃.3H₂O), oxides ofantimony, decabromodiphenyl oxide and mixtures of these compounds,optionally with a dimethyl siloxane fluid (DC200).

The bubble-pack further comprises one or more organic polymer filmsmetallized with a suitable metal, for example, aluminum to enhancereflection of infra-red radiation.

Thus, while the most preferred plastics material for the bubble andlaminated layers is polyethylene, particularly a low-densitypolyethylene, optionally, in admixture with a linear low densitypolyethylene, of use as aforesaid first and second films, the metallizedorganic polymer is a polyester, preferably polyethylene teraphthalate.

The number, size and layout of the bubbles in the pack according to theinvention may be readily selected, determined and manufactured by theskilled artisan. Typically, in a single pack, the bubbles are arrayed ina coplanar off-set arrangement. Each of the hemi-spherical bubbles maybe of any suitable diameter and height protruding out of the plane ofthe bonded films. Typically, the bubble has a diameter selected from 0.5cm-5 cm, preferably 0.8-1.5 cm; and a height selected from 0.2 cm-1 cm,preferably 0.4-0.6 cm. A preferred bubble pack has an array of about 400bubbles per 900 cm².

In a further aspect, the invention provides a vehicle or a residential,commercial or industrial building or establishment insulated with amulti-film layer or bubble-pack assembly, according to the invention

Surprisingly, I have also discovered that a clear polymeric lacquercoating applied to the metallic layer having the higher reflectivity(bright) surface as the outer layer provides a protective layer tomanual handling without significant loss of reflectance. Thus, I alsohave found that a suitable and effective thickness of the lacquerpolymeric coating can provide satisfactory anti-corrosion protection tothe metal surface and still allow of sufficient reflectance as to meetthe emissivity standard as set by the industry. A reflectance of greaterthan 95% has been maintained for preferred embodiments of the clearlacquer-coated metallized polymeric reflective insulation materials,according to the invention. A preferred lacquer comprises an acrylicpolymer or copolymer. More preferably, the acrylic polymer is polymethylmethacrylate, particularly having a molecular weight of 80,000-150,000.

Accordingly, in a further aspect the invention provides a metallizedpolymeric reflective film insulation material, as hereinabove definedand having a metallic coating outer layer having a clear lacquercoating.

The clear lacquer coating may be applied to the highest reflectancesurface, i.e. the bright side, of the metallic surface by techniques,such as by brushing, spraying, deposition and the like, as is well-knownin the art. Preferred lacquers are clear, cross-linked polymerswell-known in the art.

I have also found that preferred embodiments of the aforesaidlacquer-coated, metallized polymeric insulative materials according tothe invention provide satisfactorily meet the industry's corrosivitystandards.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order that the invention may be better understood, preferredembodiments will now be described by way of example only, with referenceto the accompanying drawings wherein

FIG. 1 represents diagrammatic, exploded section views of ametallized-double bubble-white polyethylene, with fire retardant,assembly according to the invention (Example 1);

FIG. 2 represents the assembly of FIG. 1 without fire retardant beingpresent, according to the invention (Examples 2 and 3);

FIG. 3 represents a diagrammatic, exploded sectional view of ametallized-single bubble-white polyethylene without fire retardantassembly, according to the invention (Example 4);

FIG. 4 represents a diagrammatic, exploded sectional view of ametallized-double bubble-metallized assembly without fire retardant,according to the invention (Example 5);

FIG. 5 represents a diagrammatic, exploded sectional view of ametallized-double bubble-metallized assembly with fire retardant,according to the invention (Example 6);

FIG. 6 represents a diagrammatic, exploded view of an aluminumfoil-single bubble-aluminum foil-scrim without fire retardant accordingto the prior art (Example 7);

FIG. 7 represents a diagrammatic, exploded view of an aluminumfoil-single bubble-aluminum foil with fire retardant reflectiveinsulation assembly, not according to the invention (Example 8);

FIG. 8 represents a diagrammatic, exploded view of an aluminumfoil-single bubble-white poly with fire retardant not according to theinvention (Example 9);

FIG. 9 represents an exploded view of a metallized-doublebubble-metallized-double bubble-metallized assembly having fireretardant, according to the invention (Example 10);

FIG. 10 represents an exploded view of a metallized double bubble-whitepolythene with fire retardant assembly, according to the invention(Example 11);

FIG. 11 represents an exploded view of a metallized-singlebubble-metallized without fire retardant assembly, according to theinvention (Example 12);

FIG. 12 represents an exploded view of an aluminum foil-single bubblecontaining fire retardant not according to the invention (Example 13);

FIG. 13 represents an exploded view of an aluminum foil-doublebubble-aluminum foil, according to the prior art (Examples 14 and 15);

FIGS. 14, 15 and 16 are diagrammatic, exploded sectional views of abubble-pack, scrim laminated insulation blanket, according to theinvention; and

FIG. 17 is a clear lacquer-coated metallized embodiment of FIG. 3.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 14 is a bubble-pack-scrim laminated blanket assembly havingpolyethylene layers 112, 114, 116 and 118 and scrim layer 126 with nylontapes 124 laminated between layers 112 and 114. Adhered to outer layer112 is a metallized PET layer 12.

FIGS. 15 and 16 represent the embodiment of FIG. 14 but, additionally,having an aluminum foil layer 122 laminated to layer 112 in FIG. 15 andto layer 118, via a polyethylene layer 136 in FIG. 16.

The following numerals denote the same materials throughout thedrawings, as follows:—

12—48 gauge aluminum metallized polyester (PET) film;

14—adhesive;

16—1.2 ml polyethylene film;

18—2.0 ml polyethylene film (bubbled);

20—1.2 ml ethylene vinyl acetate-polyethylene film;

22—2.0 ml polyethylene film;

24—aluminum foil;

26—polyester scrim;

FR denotes 18% w/w antimony oxide fire retardant;

W denotes presence of TiO₂ pigment (white).

The bubble pack layer is preferably of a thickness selected from 0.5 cmto 1.25 cm. The other polyethylene layers are each of a thickness,preferably, selected from 1 to 6 mls.

The fire retardant material of use in the preferred embodiments wasantimony oxide at a concentration selected from 10-20% w/w.

Insulation material No. 1 was a prior art commercial single bubble packassembly of a white polyethylene film (1.2 mil) laminated to apolyethylene bubble (2.0 mil) on one side and aluminum foil (0.275 mil)on the other.

Insulation material No. 2 was a metallized polymeric material of use inthe practise of the invention in the form of a bubble pack as formaterial No. 1 but with the aluminum foil substituted with metallizedaluminum on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film (48 gauge) adhered tothe polyethylene bubble.

Test

A blow torch was located about 10-15 cm away from the insulationmaterial (5 cm×10 cm square) and directed at each of the aluminumsurfaces.

Results

-   Single Bubble Aluminum Foil. Material No. 1 started to burn    immediately and continued burning until all organic material was    gone. Flame and smoke were extensive.-   Single Bubble Metallized Aluminum Material. For material No. 2,    where the flame was directly located, a hole was produced. However,    the flame did not spread outwards of the hole or continue to burn    the material. Flame and smoke were minimal.-   Conclusion. Single Bubble metallized material reacts better to the    flame, that is the material burned where the flame was situated but    did not continue to burn.

Clearly, this test shows the advance of the metallized insulationmaterial according to the invention over its prior art aluminum foilcounterpart.

EXAMPLES 1 AND 2 UNDERWENT FULL ROOM BURN TESTS Example 1

This Example illustrates the testing of the bubble-pack assembly shownin FIG. 1—being commonly known as a metallized-double bubble-white poly(FR) in accordance with NFPA 286 Standard Methods of Fire Tests forEvaluating Contribution of Wall and Ceiling Interior Finish to Room FireGrowth. The test material was mounted on the LHS, rear, RHS walls to aheight of the test room as well as the ceiling of the test room. Thesample did not spread flames to the ceiling during the 40 kW exposure.The flames did not spread to the extremities of the walls during the 160kW exposure. The sample did not exhibit flashover conditions during thetest. NFPA 286 does not publish pass/fail criteria. This specimen didmeet the criteria set forth in the 2003 IBC Section 803.2.1.

The test was performed by Intertek Testing Services NA, Inc., Elmendorf,Tex., 78112-984; U.S.A.

This method is used to evaluate the flammability characteristics offinish wall and ceiling coverings when such materials constitute theexposed interior surfaces of buildings. The test method does not applyto fabric covered less then ceiling height partitions used in openbuilding interiors. Freestanding panel furniture systems include allfreestanding panels that provide visual and/or acoustical separation andare intended to be used to divide space and may support components toform complete work stations. Demountable, relocatable, full-heightpartitions include demountable, relocatable, full-height partitions thatfill the space between the finished floor and the finished ceiling.

This fire test measures certain fire performance characteristics offinish wall and ceiling covering materials in an enclosure underspecified fire exposure conditions. It determines the extent to whichthe finish covering materials may contribute to fire growth in a roomand the potential for fire spread beyond the room under the particularconditions simulated. The test indicates the maximum extent of firegrowth in a room, the rate of heat release, and if they occur, the timeto flashover and the time to flame extension beyond the doorwayfollowing flashover.

General Procedure

A calibration test is run within 30 days of testing any material asspecified in the standard. All instrumentation is zeroed, spanned andcalibrated prior to testing. The specimen is installed and the diffusionburner is placed. The collection hood exhaust duct blower is turned onand an initial flow is established. The gas sampling pump is turned onand the flow rate is adjusted. When all instruments are reading steadystate conditions, the computer data acquisition system and videoequipment is started. Ambient data is taken then the burner is ignitedat a fuel flow rate that is known to produce 40 kW of heat output. Thislevel is maintained for five minutes at which time the fuel flow isincreased to the 160 kW level for a 10-minute period. During the burnperiod, all temperature, heat release and heat flux data is beingrecorded every 6 seconds. At the end of the fifteen minute burn period,the burner is shut off and all instrument readings are stopped. Posttest observations are made and this concludes the test.

All damage was documented after the test was over, using descriptions,photographs and drawings, as was appropriate.

Digital color photographs and DV video taping were both used to recordand documents the test. Care was taken to position the photographicequipment so as to not interfere with the smooth flow of air into thetest room.

The test specimen was a metallized/double bubble/white poly (FR)insulation. Each panel measured approximately 4 ft. wide×8 ft. tall×⅛in. thick. Each panel was white in color. The insulation was positionedusing metal C studs every 2 ft. o.c. with the flat side of the studfacing the interior of the room. The insulation was attached to the Cstuds using screws and washers. See Photos in Appendix B for a visualdepiction of the description above.

All joints and corners in the room were sealed to an airtight conditionusing gypsum drywall joint compound and/or ceramic fiber insulation. Seephotos in the appendix fort a detailed view of the finished specimen.

The data acquisition system was started and allowed to collect ambientdata prior to igniting the burner and establishing a gas flow equivalentto 40 kW for the first 5 minutes and 160 kW for the next 10 minutes.Events during the test are described below:

TIME (min:sec) OBSERVATION 0:00 Ignition of the burner at a level of 40kW. 0:20 Specimen surface began to melt. 0:45 The specimen began to meltat 4 ft. above the specimen. 0:55 Ignition of the specimen at themelting edge. 1:25 Melting of the specimen at 8 ft. above the testburner. 3:20 Ignition of the specimen at the RHS edge of melt pattern.3:38 Flaming drops began to fall from the specimen. 4:00 Burning onmetal side of specimen only. 5:00 Burner output increased to 160 kW.5:18 Specimen began to rapidly melt away. 5:25 The specimen began tomelt away at 6 ft. from the test corner. 6:20 No burning of the specimenobserved. 8:20 Material fell in front of the doorway. 9:00 TC # 5 fellin front of the doorway. 12:00  No new activity. 14:00  No changesobserved in the specimen. 15:00  Test terminated.Post Test Observations:

The specimen was completely melted on the top portions along all threewalls. On the lower LHS wall, the specimen was still intact and appearedto have no visible damage. The lower rear wall appeared to have melting4 ft. from the test corner, with the specimen intact from 4-8 ft fromthe test corner. The lower RHS wall was melted 4 ft. from the testcorner and appeared intact from 4 ft. to the doorway. The specimen onthe ceiling panels was observed to have been 100% melted.

Conclusion

The sample submitted, installed, and tested as described in this reportdisplayed low levels of heat release, and upper level temperatures. Thesample did not spread flames to the ceiling during the 40 kW exposure.The flames did not spread to the extremities of the 12-foot walls duringthe 106 kW exposure. The sample did not exhibit flashover conditionsduring the test. NFPA 286 does not publish pass/fail criteria. One mustconsult the codes to determine pass fail. This specimen did meet thecriteria set forth in the 2003 IBC Section 803.2.1.

Example 2

The test described under Example 1 was repeated but with a metallizeddouble bubble/white poly not containing fire retardant as shown in FIG.2.

The sample did not spread flames to ceiling during the 40 kW exposure.The flames did spread to the extremities of the walls during the 106 kWexposure. The sample did not exhibit flashover conditions during thetest. NFPA 286 does not publish pass/fail criteria. However, thisspecimen did not meet the criteria set forth in the 2003 IBC Section803.2.1.

Events during the test are described below:

TIME (min:sec) OBSERVATION 0:00 Ignition of the burner at a level of 40kW. 0:14 Specimen surface began to melt. 0:20 The edge of the specimenignited. 0:38 The specimen began to melt 6-7 ft. above theburner/flaming drops began to fall from the specimen. 1:21 Flame spreadat 2 ft. horizontally at 4 ft. above the test burner. 2:31 Flame spreadat 4 ft. horizontally at 4 ft. above the test burner. 3:50 The specimenon the ceiling began to fall. 4:24 The specimen began to fall from thecorners and ceiling. 5:00 Burner output increased to 160 kW/specimencontinuing to fall. 5:57 Flame spread at 6 ft. horizontally at thebottom of the 8 ft. wall. 7:10 Flames reached 8 ft. along the 8 ft.wall. 8:38 Flames on the LHS wall reached 10 ft. from the test corner.9:40 Flames on the LHS wall reached 12 ft. extremity. 10:38  Testterminated.Post Test Observations:

The specimen was 100% melted from the C studs along all the walls. Thegypsum board behind the specimen was flame bleached and charred in thetest corner. Along the rear wall, the bottom of the wall was charred thelength of the wall. On the RHS wall, 5 ft. of specimen was still intactnear the doorway. The insulation on the LHS wall was melted completelywith the exception of a small 2 ft. section attached to the C stud nearthe doorway. The insulation on the ceiling was 100% melted exposing theC studs.

Conclusion

The sample submitted, installed, and tested as described in this reportdisplayed low levels of heat release, and upper level temperatures. Thesample did not spread flames to the ceiling during the 40 kW exposure.The flames did spread to the extremities of the 12-foot walls during the160 kW exposure. The sample did not exhibit flashover conditions duringthe test. NFPA 286 does not publish pass/fail criteria. One must consultthe codes to determine pass-fail. This specimen did not meet the verystrict criteria set forth in the 2003 IBC Section 803.2.1.

Test Standard Method ASTME 84-05

Examples 3-6 underwent tests carried out in accordance with TestStandard Method ASTME84-05 for Surface Burning Characteristics ofBuilding Materials, (also published under the following designationsANSI 2.5; NFPA 255; UBC 8-1 (42-1); and UL723).

The method is for determining the comparative surface burning behaviourof building materials. This test is applicable to exposed surfaces, suchas ceilings or walls, provided that the material or assembly ofmaterials, by its own structural quality or the manner in which it istested and intended for use, is capable of supporting itself in positionor being supported during the test period.

The purpose of the method is to determine the relative burning behaviourof the material by observing the flame spread along the specimen. Flamespread and smoke density developed are reported. However, there is notnecessarily a relationship between these two measurements.

It should be noted that the use of supporting materials on the undersideof the test specimen may lower the flame spread index from that whichmight be obtained if the specimen could be tested without such support.This method may not be appropriate for obtaining comparative surfaceburning behaviour of some cellular plastic materials. Testing ofmaterials that melt, drip, or delaminate to such a degree that thecontinuity of the flame front is destroyed, results in low flame spreadindices that do not relate directly to indices obtained by testingmaterials that remain in place.

Table 1 gives detailed observations for the experiments conducted inExamples 3 to 15.

Example 3

The test specimen consisted of (3) 8 ft. long×24 in. wide×1.398 in.thick 17.50 lbs metallized/double bubble/white poly (No-FR) reflectiveinsulation, assembly of FIG. 2 secured to 1.75 in. wide×1 in. thick,aluminum frames using ¾ in. long, self-drilling, hex head screws andwashers. The nominal thickness of the reflective insulation was 5/16 in.thick. The white poly was facing the flames during the test. Thespecimen was self-supporting and was placed directly on the inner ledgesof the tunnel.

The test results, computed on the basis of observed flame front advanceand electronic smoke density measurements were as follows.

Flame Spread Smoke Test Specimen Index Developed Index Mineral FiberCement Board 0 0 Red Oak Flooring 85 75 Test Specimen 5 5

This metallized-double bubble-white poly having no fire-retardantassembly of FIG. 2 was most acceptable in this E84-05 test to permit usein Class A buildings.

During the test, the specimen was observed to behave in the followingmanner:

The white poly facer began to melt at 0:05 (min:sec). The specimenignited at 0:07 (min:sec). The insulation began to fall from thealuminum frames at 0:08 (min.sec.). The test continued for the 10:00duration. After the test burners were turned off, a 60 second afterflame was observed.

After the test the specimen was observed to be damaged as follows:

The specimen was consumed from 0 ft.-9 ft. The white poly facer wasmelted from 19 ft.-24 ft.

Example 4

This embodiment is a repeat of Example 3, but with a metallized/singlebubble/white poly (No-FR) reflective insulation assembly as shown inFIG. 3 substituted for the material described in Example 3.

Specimen Description

The specimen consisted of (3) 8 ft. long×24 in. wide×1.100 in. thick16.60 lbs metallized/single bubble/white poly (No-FR) reflectiveinsulation, secured to 1.75 in. wide×1 in. thick, aluminum frames using¾ in. long, self-drilling, hex head screws and washers. The nominalthickness of the reflective insulation was 3/16 in. thick. The whitepoly was facing the test burners. The specimen was self-supporting andwas placed directly on the inner ledges of the tunnel.

Flame Spread Smoke Test Material Index Developed Index Mineral FiberCement Board 0 0 Red Oak Flooring 85 75 Specimen 5 0

During the test, the specimen was observed to behave in the followingmanner: The poly facer began to melt at 0:03 (min/sec). The poly facerignited at 0:06 (min:sec). The insulation began to fall from thealuminum frames at 0:07 (min:sec). The insulation ignited on the floorof the apparatus at 0:07 (min:sec). The test continued for the 10:00duration.

After the test the specimen was observed to be damaged as follows:

The insulation was consumed from 0 ft.-20 ft. The poly facer was meltedfrom 20 ft.-24 ft. The polyethylene bubbles were melted from 20 ft. to24 ft.

Example 5

This embodiment is a repeat of Example 3, but with a metallized/doublebubble/metallized (No FR) reflective insulation substituted for thematerial described in Example 3.

Specimen Description

The specimen consisted of (3) 8 ft. long×24 in. wide×1.230 in. thick17.40 lbs metallized/double bubble/metallized no FR reflectiveinsulation assembly of FIG. 4, secured to 1.75 in. wide×1 in. thick,aluminum frames using ¾ in. long, self-drilling, hex head screws andwashers. The nominal thickness of the reflective insulation was 5/16 in.thick. The specimen was self-supporting and was placed directly on theinner ledges of the tunnel.

Flame Spread Smoke Test Material Index Developed Index Mineral FiberCement Board 0 0 Red Oak Flooring 85 75 Test Specimen 5 5

During the test, the specimen was observed to behave in the followingmanner: The metallized insulation began to melt at 0:06 (min:sec). Themetallized insulation began to fall from the aluminum frame at 0:10(min.sec.). The metallized insulation ignited at 0:11 (min.sec). Thetest continued for the 10:00 duration. After the test burners wereturned off, a 19 second after flame was observed.

After the test, the specimen was observed to be damaged as follows:

The metallized insulation was consumed from 0 ft.-16 ft. Thepolyethylene bubbles were melted from 16 ft.-24 ft. Light discolorationwas observed to the metallized facer from 16 ft.-24 ft.

This metallized-double bubble-metallized assembly of FIG. 4 met the E84standard for building reflective insulation.

Example 6

This embodiment is a repeat of Example 5, but with a metallized/doublebubble/metallized (FR) reflective insulation assembly as seen in FIG. 5substituted for the material described in Example 5, FIG. 4.

The specimen consisted of (3) 8 ft. long×24 in. wide×1.325 in. thick17.70 lbs metallized/double bubble/metallized (FR) reflective insulationassembly, secured to 1.75 in. wide×1 in. thick, aluminum frames using ¾in. long, self-drilling, hex head screws and washers. The nominalthickness of the reflective insulation was 5/16 in. thick.

Flame Spread Smoke Test Materials Index Developed Index Mineral FiberCement Board 0 0 Red Oak Flooring 85 75 Test Specimen 5 15

During the test, the specimen was observed to behave in the followingmanner: The metallized facer began to melt at 0:04 (min:sec.). Thespecimen ignited at 0:06 (min:sec.). The metallized insulation began tofall from the aluminum frames at 0:11 (min:sec). The floor of theapparatus ignited at 6:41 (min:sec). The test continued for the 10:00duration. After the test burners were turned off, a 60 second afterflame was observed.

After the test the specimen was observed to be damaged as follows:

The insulation was consumed from 0 ft.-16 ft. The polyethylene bubbleswere melted from 16 ft.-24 ft. Light discoloration was observed to themetallized facer from 16 ft.-24 ft.

The metallized-double bubble-metallized (FR) reflective insulationassembly of FIG. 5 passed this ASTM E84-05 test for Class A buildinginsulation.

In the following embodiments Examples 7-9, less stringent ASTM E84 testconditions were employed.

Example 7

An aluminum foil-single bubble-aluminum foil/poly with polyester scrimreflective insulation assembly, without a fire-retardant was stapled tothree 2×8 ft. wood frames with L-bars spaced every 5 feet O.C. wastested. The reflective insulation was secured to the L-bars by usingself-drilling screws.

-   Flame Spread Index 50-   Smoke Developed Index 50    This material failed this ASTM E84 test.

Example 8

Aluminum foil-single bubble-aluminum foil with fire-retardant reflectiveinsulation assembly was stapled to (3) 2×8 ft. wood frames, L-bar crossmembers on 5 ft. centers, stapled to wood on sides and screwed to L-bar.The sample was self-supporting. This assembly as shown in FIG. 7, failedthis E84 test conditions for building insulations, for having a flamespread index of 55 and a smoke developed index of 30.

Example 9

Aluminum foil-single bubble-white poly (FR) as shown in FIG. 8 wasattached to nominal 2×2 wood frames with L-bar cross members spacedevery 5 ft. O.C. The sample was self-supporting.

The specimen had a flame speed index of 65 and a smoke developed indexof 75 to not be acceptable as Class A building material.

The following embodiments describe ASTM 84-05el Surface BurningCharacteristics of Building Materials.

Example 10

The following modified ASTM E84-05el test was designed to determine therelative surface burning characteristics of materials under specifictest conditions. Results are again expressed in terms of flame spreadindex (FSI) and smoke developed (SD).

Summary of Test Procedure

The tunnel was preheated to 150° F., as measured by the floor-embeddedthermocouple located 23.25 feet downstream of the burner ports, andallowed to cool to 105° F., as measured by the floor-embeddedthermocouple located 13 ft. from the burners. At this time, the tunnellid was raised and the test sample placed along the ledges of the tunnelso as to form a continuous ceiling 24 ft. long, 12 inches. above thefloor. The lid was then lowered into place.

Upon ignition of the gas burners, the flame spread distance was observedand recorded every 15 seconds. Flame spread distance versus time isplotted ignoring any flame front recessions. If the area under the curve(A) is less than or equal to 97.5 min.-ft., FSI=0.515 A; if greater,FSI=4900/(195−A). Smoke developed is determined by comparing the areaunder the obscuration curve for the test sample to that of inorganicreinforced cement board and red oak, arbitrarily established as 0 and100, respectively.

The reflective insulation was a metallized-double bubble-metallizedassembly with fire-retardant, as shown in FIG. 9. The material had avery acceptable OFSI and 85 SD.

Observations of Burning Characteristics

The sample began to ignite and propagate flame immediately upon exposureto the test flame.

The sample did not propagate past the base line.

Maximum amounts of smoke developed were recorded during the early statesof the test.

Example 11

The test conditions were as for Example 10 but carried out with ametallized/bubble/single bubble, white (FR) as shown in FIG. 10,substituted for the material of Example 10.

The white face was exposed to the flame source. The material had a veryacceptable 0 FSI and 65 DS.

Observations of Burning Characteristics

The sample began to ignite and propagate flame immediately upon exposureto the test flame.

The sample did not afford a flame front propagation.

Maximum amounts of smoke developed were recorded during the early statesof the test.

Example 12

The test conditions were as for Example 10 but carried out with ametallized-single bubble as shown in FIG. 11, substitute for thematerial of Example 10.

The test material had a very accept 0 FSI and 30 SD.

Observations of Burning Characteristics

The sample began to ignite and propagate flame immediately upon exposureto the test flame.

The sample did not afford a flame front propagation.

Maximum amounts of smoke developed were recorded during the early statesof the test.

Example 13

The test conditions were as for Examples 7-9, with a self-supportingaluminum foil-single bubble containing fire retardant as shown in FIG.12. An unacceptable FSI of 30 and a SDI of 65 was observed.

Example 14

The test was conducted under ASTM E84-00a Conditions in Jan. 22, 2002,with layers of aluminum foil-double bubble-aluminum foil, according tothe prior art as shown in FIG. 13. The specimen consisted of a 24″wide×24′ long× 5/16″ thick (nominal) 3.06 lbs sheet of reflectiveinsulation—foil/double PE bubble/foil. The specimen was tested with a ⅛″wide×24′ long second of the foil facer removed from the center to exposethe core material directly to the flames.

Results

Flame Spread Smoke Developed Test Specimen Index Index Mineral FiberCement Board  0 0 Red Oak Flooring n/a 100 Sample 115 20

During the test, the specimen was observed to behave in the followingmanner: Steady ignition began at 0:35 (min:sec). Flaming drops began tofall from the specimen at 0:45 and a floor flame began burning at 0:46.The test continued for the 10:00 duration. Upon completion of the test,the methane test burners were turned off and an after flame continued toburn for 0:19.

After the test, the specimen was observed to be damaged in the followingmanner: The specimen was slightly burned through from 1 ft. to 3 ft. ThePE bubble was melted from 0 ft. to 24 ft. and the foil facer had a blackdiscoloration on it from 2 ft. to 24 ft.

The sample was supported on ¼″ steel rods and 2″ galvanized hexagonalwire mesh id not meet the criteria see for this E84-00a test for abuilding insulation.

Example 15

This example was a repeat of Example 14.

Results

Flame Spread Smoke Developed Test Specimen Index Index Mineral FiberCement Board  0 0 Red Oak Flooring n/a 100 Sample 65 35

During the test, the specimen was observed to behave in the followingmanner: Steady ignition began at 0:54 (min:sec). Flaming drops began tofall from the specimen at 0:58 and a floor flame began burning at 1:03.The test continued for the 10:00 duration.

After the test, the specimen was observed to be damaged as follows: Thefoil was 80% consumed from 1 ft. to 3 ft. and lightly discoloured from 3ft. to 24 ft. The bubble core was melted/collapsed from 0 ft. to 24 ft.

Although the results were an improvement over Example 14 material, theywere still not satisfactory.

TABLE EXAMPLE 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 13 14 15 Specimen Data Time to 7 6 11 6 7 328 9 35 54 Ignition (sec.) Time to Max 23 22 26 23 64 81 38 28 284 191 FS(sec.) Maximum FS 0.6 0.8 0.6 1.0 10.7 11.8 12.1 5.5 19.5 14.5 (feet)Time to 980° F. NR NR NR NR NR NR NR NR NR NR (sec) Max 447 416 482 476470 561 582 520 728 711 Temperature (° F.) Time to Max 597 600 596 565599 82 48 594 316 127 Temperature (sec) Total Fuel 51.44 51.26 51.5751.17 50.75 50.65 50.81 50.61 39.47 35.82 Burned (cubic feet) FS* Time6.0 7.4 6.2 9.6 99.8 104.2 117.1 53.5 153.1 121.0 Area (ft* min) SmokeArea 2.3 1.1 3.2 10.8 41.7 26.5 65.0 53.4 22.2 33.4 (% A* min) Fuel Area3971.3 3668.6 4283.0 4324.4 4271.2 5035.3 5032.7 4554 5608.3 5556.9 (°F.* min) Fuel 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 9 8 Contributed Value Unrounded 3.1 3.83.2 4.9 51.5 54.0 62.9 27.5 117.0 66.2 FSI *Never Reached CalibrationData Time to 44 44 44 44 41 41 41 41 50 55 Ignition of Last Red Oak(sec.) Red Oak 62.50 62.50 62.50 62.50 85.0 85.0 85 85 100.00 101.02Smoke Area (% A* min) Red Oak Fuel 8972 8972 8972 8972 8128 8128 81288128 8548 9763 Area (° F.* min) Glass Fiber 5065 5065 5065 5065 54435443 5443 5443 5311 5178 Board Fuel Area (° F.* min)

Example 16

Standard Surface Emittance (reflectivity) tests (ASTM C1371-04a—“Standard Test Method for Determination of Emittance ofMaterials near Room Temperature Using Portable Emissometers”) with theembodiments shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 17 gave a measured emittance of0.30 (65% reflectance) for the dull surface of the metallized coated PETmaterial and a value of 0.06 (96% reflectance) for the shiny surface.

The 0.5 ml thick lacquer coated metallized coated PET surface also gavean acceptable reflectance of 96%.

The lacquer layer 150 provides suitable, anti-corrosion protection.

Although this disclosure has described and illustrated certain preferredembodiments of the invention, it is to be understood that the inventionis not restricted to those particular embodiments. Rather, the inventionincludes all embodiments, which are functional or mechanical equivalenceof the specific embodiments and features that have been described andillustrated.

1. A method of thermally insulating an object that requires a Class Astandard insulation material having a flame speed rating value of 0 to25 and a smoke developed rating value of 0 to 450, said methodcomprising suitably locating a reflective insulation material in athermally insulating position adjacent to said object, wherein saidreflective insulation material comprises a bubble-pack assembly having ametallized polymeric film bonded thereto such that said metallizedpolymeric film is positioned to provide said assembly with a reflectivemetallized outer surface, said reflective metallized outer surfacehaving a clear, anticorrosion lacquer protective coating thereon,wherein said metallized polymeric film with the protective coatingthereon has a surface thermal emissivity equivalent to or greater than95% reflectance and wherein said metallized polymeric film excludes ametal foil on a polymeric film, said insulation material beingsufficient to satisfy the requirements for Class A thermal insulation.2. A method as claimed in claim 1 wherein said object is selected froman article to be packaged, a vehicle and a residential, commercial orindustrial building or establishment.
 3. A method as claimed in claim 2wherein said object is a residential, commercial or industrial buildingor establishment requiring Class A standard insulation material, saidmethod comprising locating said reflective insulation material within aframe structure, wall, crawl space or ceiling, or wrapping waterheaters, pipes or air ducts within said building or establishment.
 4. Amethod as claimed in claim 3 wherein said bubble-pack assembly comprisesa first thermoplastic film having a plurality of portions wherein eachof said portions defines a cavity; and a second film in sealedengagement with said first film to close each of said cavities.
 5. Amethod as claimed in claim 4 wherein said thermoplastic film is selectedfrom the group consisting of low density polyethylene, linear lowdensity polyethylene and nylon.
 6. A method as claimed in claim 4wherein said thermoplastic film contains an amount of an addedfire-retardant material effective to enhance the fire-retardantproperties of the assembly.
 7. A method as claimed in claim 4 whereinsaid bubble-pack assembly further comprises at least one or a pluralityof additional thermoplastic films.
 8. A method as claimed in claim 4wherein said metallized polymeric film contains an amount of afire-retardant additive effective to enhance the fire retardantproperties of the assembly.
 9. A method as claimed in claim 1 whereinsaid metallized polymeric film comprises a metallized polyethylene orpolyester film.
 10. A method as claimed in claim 9 wherein the metal inthe metallized polymeric film is aluminum.
 11. A method as claimed inclaim 1 wherein said metallized polymeric film comprises afire-retardant material admixed with the polymer of said film.
 12. Amethod as claimed in claim 1 wherein said reflective insulation materialis free from any added fire-retardant material and said metallizedpolymeric film is aluminized polyester film.
 13. A method as claimed inclaim 1 wherein said lacquer protective coating comprises an acrylicpolymer or copolymer of 80,000-150,000 molecular weight.
 14. A method ofthermally insulating an object that requires a Class A standardinsulation material having a flame speed rating value of 0 to 25 and asmoke developed rating value of 0 to 450, said method comprisingsuitably locating a reflective insulation material in a thermallyinsulating position adjacent to said object, wherein said reflectiveinsulation material comprises a bubble-pack assembly having a metallizedpolymeric film bonded thereto such that said metallized polymeric filmis positioned to provide said assembly with a reflective metallizedouter surface, said reflective metallized outer surface having a clear,anticorrosion lacquer protective coating thereon, wherein saidmetallized polymeric film with the protective coating thereon has asurface thermal emissivity equivalent to or greater than 95%reflectance, wherein said metallized polymeric film excludes a metalfoil on a polymeric film, wherein said bubble-pack assembly comprises afirst thermoplastic film having a plurality of portions wherein each ofsaid portions defines a cavity; and a second film in sealed engagementwith said first film to close each of said cavities, wherein saidmetallized polymeric film comprises a metallized polyethylene orpolyester film, wherein said metal in the metallized polymeric film isaluminum and wherein said thermoplastic film is selected from the groupconsisting of low density polyethylene, linear low density polyethyleneand nylon, said insulation material being sufficient to satisfy therequirements for Class A thermal insulation.